#SHMACF

The day in review

This year’s event was host to over 50 community and charity stalls, a huge live music stage, stilt-walkers, clowns and some fabulous displays from local dance, boxing and gymnastics groups.

The Food-Zone treated everyone to delights from around the world, including chocolate waffle-sticks, ice-creams, Indian, Caribbean, Spanish and Filipino food, along with burgers, chips and freshly ground coffees from local traders.

There was also a mascot race at 3pm where a number of mascots entered but the final saw Cyril the Squirrel & the Sutton Fire Brigades “Smoke-Alarm” battle it out in a run-off for top spot. The winner’s trophy was presented by the Borough Commander for Sutton, Phil Morton.

Local celebrity Wayne Woodward, Simon Cowell Lookalike Andy Penfold & the reigning Miss Croydon also attended the day and spent time at various stalls, enjoying the fabulous atmosphere.

The day ended with an amazing water display from the Fire-Brigade, which was enjoyed immensely by the children (and some adults) as it had been a full day of sunshine with temperatures hitting 22-23 degrees.

Celeb FC Founder Karin Flower who is part of the St Helier Music and Community Festival volunteer committee, said “Overall feedback on this year’s event has been very positive. Coupled with the great speech from Mayor of Sutton Muhammad Sadiq on the day, where he praised the small businesses who had contributed to the success of the #SHMACF this year by offering sponsorship’s, we have a great founding for building an even bigger and better festival for the community next year”.

Music from the main stage was enjoyed by many as they sat in the blazing sunshine all afternoon.

The St Helier Music and Community Festival gives local charities and community groups – ranging in size from a couple volunteers to larger operations – a unique opportunity to promote their causes to their community. It also allows local residents to enjoy a stress-free day out, as there is no entry fee to attend and most of the entertainment throughout the day is free (displays, music, dancing, etc).